The Somali Kitchen

Just my cup of tea – Somali shaah redolent with spices

 

There is a fine tradition in Somali society known as casariya, a word that is loosely translated to mean afternoon tea. Wonderfully spiced tea called shaah in Somali is often served with various types of sweet or savoury treats. And you never, ever have shaah without sheeko (stories)!

Sambuus Qudaar (Vegetable Samosa)

 

Sambuus, sambusa, samosa – are delicious, regardless of what name you use for them.  They are a great snack or appetiser.

Fried coffee, anyone? (Bun Soomaali)

Fried coffee? I know what you are thinking! It sounds weird, right? But let me tell you the taste is incredible and Somalis have some interesting stories that we associate with the bean.

Somali polenta flat bread (Muufo)

Traditionally, Somalis bake muufo in a special clay oven called tinaar that is heated by charcoal. The muufo is flattened and stuck on the walls of the tinaar. No oil is ever used. You know the muufo is ready when it falls off the wall.  Muufo is a wonderful bread to serve with soup or stew.

Hummus with tahini – tasty and filling

 

Rich, smooth, creamy, garlicky with a hint of spice – that’s how I like my hummus. Not only does it make a great protein-packed dip, but it can also be used to ‘butter’ your bread or used instead of mayo in a sandwich.

Hulled millet with yoghurt and berries (Garow, haruur ama masago cadey)

 

Grains such as millet and sorghum are drought resistant and grow quickly in the semi-arid lands of the Somalis. It is no wonder that they are such an integral part of Somali cuisine.

Maraq Hilib Ido (Lamb Shoulder Soup)

Maraq hilib ido also known as fuud hilib ido is the Somali equivalent of the famous Jewish chicken soup. If you live in a Somali household or have Somali neighbours, this is the soup you will be given if you have a cold, breastfeeding or happen to be well liked!

Tofu, sweet potato, red kidney bean and spinach salad

 

This salad is a complete meal in itself. It has protein galore in the shape of tofu and beans, iron-rich spinach and the sweet potato provides you with good carbs. Spices and herbs such as paprika, garlic, ginger, cumin, chilli and mint add a wonderful punch of flavour.

Yamina’s Yummy Apple Cake – almost too good to eat

When we first saw this cake we thought it looked too good to eat. Then we ate it and it tasted too good to not keep eating. Spongy, moist and apple-y (is that a word?) is the best way to describe it.

Sabaayad pudding (Umm Ali) – a different kind of bread pudding

I don’t know what is more delicious – the dish or the story behind the origin of the dish…read on and you can decide for yourself…